A preventable, treatable injury sustained in childbirth, fistula is a “canary in the coal mine” — an indicator of failing health systems and an indicator of places where civil societies are deeply failing women and girls.

Obstetric fistula is not just a women’s issue, and not just about the developing world. It is about our inability to prioritize people’s lives and about legislation that restricts funding based on political battles. And it reflects a sense of complacency towards striving for social equality and progress.